All articles tagged with #alcohol related liver disease
Excessive alcohol use impairs liver regeneration by causing splicing errors in key proteins, trapping damaged cells in a non-functional state even after sobriety, but understanding this mechanism opens avenues for new treatments.
Excessive alcohol impairs liver healing by causing RNA missplicing and reducing ESRP2 protein, trapping liver cells in a non-functional state even after quitting alcohol, which contributes to liver failure. The study suggests potential treatment targets to improve liver recovery.
Long-term alcohol consumption impairs liver regeneration by causing inflammation-induced RNA splicing errors, leading to cells being stuck in an intermediate state; targeting inflammation and restoring ESRP2 may offer new treatment options.
A new study reveals that chronic alcohol use impairs liver regeneration by causing RNA missplicing due to ESRP2 deficiency, leading to cells being trapped in a non-functional state, which contributes to liver failure. The findings suggest potential treatment pathways targeting inflammation and RNA splicing to improve liver recovery.
The Biden administration is concerned about the alarming trend of increasing rates of alcohol-related liver disease among women, with recent data showing that women will account for nearly half of the associated costs in the U.S. by 2040. Factors contributing to this trend include targeted marketing of alcoholic beverages to women, the emergence of "mommy wine culture," and the use of alcohol to cope with stress, particularly during the covid-19 pandemic. Public health experts fear the escalating costs and are calling for potential policy changes, while the USDA and HHS are set to review national dietary guidelines next year, including the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risks.
Alcohol-related liver disease is the leading cause of death from excessive drinking, with annual deaths on the rise, particularly among younger adults and women. The disease progresses through stages, starting with fatty liver disease and potentially leading to cirrhosis. Heavy alcohol consumption and inflammation are key factors in liver damage, and the condition often goes undetected until it's too late for effective treatment.
The pandemic has accelerated a shift in the demographics of patients needing liver transplants in Colorado, with more women and people under 40 showing up in need of transplants due to alcohol-related liver failure. Alcohol-related deaths in Colorado rose significantly during the pandemic, and the state ranks as one of the worst for deaths due to drinking. The increase in alcohol-related liver disease follows a spike in liquor purchases early in the pandemic, and prevention is emphasized as a key factor in addressing this issue. While transplants can extend lives, prevention remains crucial, as the effects of heavy drinking can be severe and irreversible.
Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center in Denver is experiencing a surge in liver transplants, largely due to an increase in alcohol-related liver disease, particularly among younger patients in their 20s and 30s. Dr. Tom Heffron, the director of liver transplant, notes that around 80% of their patients have alcohol involvement, and the center is anticipating a doubling of liver transplants this year. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing signs of liver disease and seeking help, as early intervention is crucial.